The Wild Reeds at the Ritz

3 REED: On last year's 'The World We Built' the Wild Reeds continue to expand their sound.

On their last record, The World We Built, the Wild Reeds blended plainspoken folk lyricism, lo-fi surf guitars and tasty spoonfuls of alt-country twang. Currently on tour behind their latest LP, Cheers, this women-led band is showing off some new tricks. While their ramshackle indie sensibilities remain, they’ve put some bounce in their step and some glitter in their doo-wop-flecked vocal harmonies. It would seem they’ve descended from Laurel Canyon to cruise the Sunset Strip—trading in their banjo, acoustic guitar and pump organ for high gain tube amps, sparkling Rhodes keys and quivering Hammond tones.